0800 181 4422

Fast track support helps SKU target export markets

May 07, 2009

An Antrim-based logistics company is set for substantial growth in export sales with support from Invest Northern Ireland.

SKU Ltd is a third party logistics (3PL) provider that specialises in handling electronic components. The business acts as the interface between component manufacturers, many of which are based in the Far East, and local assembly businesses.

Invest NI has offered support for activities including export marketing and wider business development, with SKU embarking on a series of market visits to target potential clients in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Such visits allow SKU to fully explain how its business model, encompassing value-added activities, can contribute directly to increasing the productivity of its clients.

GAP support from Invest NI is also allowing the company to employ an Operations Manager which will be vital to SKU achieving its business goals. As well as providing financial support Invest NI provided advice and guidance on the job specification and recruitment process. The company is also developing a web based inventory management system with Invest NI support to enable them to fully integrate with their customers and supply chain.

SKU’s Managing Director, Colin Rodgers, says: “We have extensive experience in supply chain management of components specific to the electronics industry and our aim is to establish Northern Ireland as a hub for the redistribution of overseas manufacturers’ products throughout the UK, RoI and Europe.

“The benefits of using the 3PL web based solution for local assembly companies include reduced inventory, easier goods receiving process, fewer operator errors and it also frees up working capital.”

Gren Armstrong, Manager of Invest NI’s North East Regional Office, says: “GAP aims to fast track support for small businesses to ensure that they can take advantage of opportunities as they present themselves. This support will help SKU to quickly address the barriers that are inhibiting its export growth. With an Operations Manager on board the company will be better able to focus its marketing activities and expand its customer base allowing it to achieve its ambitious export sales targets.”